Effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. on cognitive function and mood related outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. has been used as an herbal brain tonic for mental disorders and enhancing memory, but no review of the overall evidence of C. asiatica and cognitive function has been conducted. This study aims to determine the effects of C. asiatica on cognitive function and its related properties. The current systematic review includes five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica alone and six RCTs conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica-containing products. Meta-analysis indicated that there are no significant differences in all cognitive function domains of C. asiatica when compared to placebo. However, it could improve mood by increasing alert scores [SMD: 0.71 (95% CI; 0.01 to 1.41); I2 = 30.5%] and decreasing anger scores at 1 hour after treatment [SMD: −0.81 (95%CI; −1.51 to −0.09); I2 = 36.6%]. None of the studies reported adverse effects of C. asiatica. In conclusion, there is not strong evidence to support the use of C. asiatica for cognitive function improvement in each cognitive domain. C. asiatica could improve alertness and relieve anger. However, some limitations should be aware including dose regimen, plant preparation, standardization, and product variation. Future well-designed clinical trials using suitable doses of standardized C. asiatica are still needed.

Does traditional asian vegetables (ulam) consumption correlate with brain activity using fMRI? A study among aging adults from low‐income households

“…These findings are also been supported by a previous study in which a significant improvement was reported in the executive functioning and working memory of 20 healthy Malaysian participants after 3 weeks of being supplemented with the Superulam capsules (a combination of ulam or traditional Asian vegetables extracts) . Another systematic review on the common ulam, Centella asiatica , was also reported in Thailand, where the herb was not only discovered for improving working memory and alertness, but also in relieving anger as well …”

“…25 Another systematic review on the common ulam, Centella asiatica, was also reported in Thailand, where the herb was not only discovered for improving working memory and alertness, but also in relieving anger as well. 10 The high level of antioxidants and polyphenols in ulam 26 was also found to be a major contributor to the cognitive pathway, where the latter is known for attenuating apoptosis, removing reactive oxygen species, preventing oxidative stress that causes cognitive decline, 8 as well as initiating the activation of sirtuins in the regulation of the human body cells that alleviates the occurrence of neurodegenerative illnesses. 27 Also, the flavonoid from the plants would scavenge for free radicals and decrease the neuron apoptosis that impedes neuroinflammation.…”

Nature’s Derivative(s) as Alternative Anti-Alzheimer’s Disease Treatments

“…Enhancing memory retention [34] and promoting longevity, this neurodegenerative adaptogen also helps in preventing cognitive impairments and alleviating oxidative stress associated with AD due to its antioxidant properties [35]. It is an alternative for acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which generally comprise the first-line of treatment for AD and can also help in lowering the phospholipase A 2 activity [36]. A natural process that plays a role in causing neurodegeneration, i.e., mitochondrial dysfunction, can be altered by the antioxidant activity of this herb [37].…”

More Ulam for Your Brain: A Review on the Potential Role of Ulam in Protecting Against Cognitive Decline

“…However, most of the studies reported that pegaga capsule supplementation could improve working memory, alertness and relieve anger. This result was obtained from a systemic review article which reviewed 11 articles related to relationship between pegaga consumption, particularly capsule supplementation with cognitive function and mood (Puttarak et al 2017). Pegaga had been consumed to control anxiety as it helps in relaxation and mental calmness by inhibiting phospholipase substrate 2 activities in rat's cerebellum (Wijeweera et al 2006).…”